Uruguay faced a tumultuous night during their Copa America semifinal clash against Colombia. Marcelo Bielsa‘s squad suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat before it all descended into chaos with star player Darwin Nunez embroiled in a physical altercation with Colombian fans. The situation escalated further when Manuel Ugarte‘s mother fainted during the commotion.
The family of the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder was seated near the altercation. According to journalist Favian Renkel, Ugarte‘s mother fainted amidst the chaos.
Miami is already waiting for Messi, Dibu Martinez, and Argentina ?? for the final of the Copa America 2024
Medical staff promptly attended to her while the fight continued. The incident, which took place after the final whistle, was sparked by a group of intoxicated Colombian fans hurling abuse at Darwin Nunez‘s family. Other Uruguayan players’ families were also in close proximity to the brawl.
In response, Nunez confronted the offending fans. Videos circulating online show the Liverpool striker throwing punches in anger.
Security personnel and supporters from both sides attempted to diffuse the situation, but the brawl persisted for an extended period, appearing uncontrollable at times.
Gimenez criticizes the organizers
Adding to the tension, Colombian supporters were seen jeering at the Uruguayan players post-match. This behavior at the Bank of America Stadium did not sit well with Marcelo Bielsa’s team, who vocally criticized the tournament’s organizers for the lack of control over the spectators.
“They stormed all our families,” Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez said.
“A certain sector of Colombia fans, and they won’t let us speak on the microphone. I’m going to say it now because I know I can because if not they’ll cut you off. This is a disaster. Our family is in danger. We had to get on the top of the stands ASAP to rescue our loved ones. With newborn babies. It was a disaster.
“There was not a single policeman. Officers popped in after a half an hour. It was a disaster. And we were there facing the consequences for our people. I hope that those who are organizing this are a little more careful with the families, with the people and with the people around in the stadiums. It’s a disaster because all the matches are the same.
“Our families are suffering because of some who drink one or two shots of alcohol that don’t know how to drink. Who behave like children and are not decent.”